Molex 0444741021 Rectangular Connector - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Molex 0444741021 is an active-status vertical header connector from the Mini-Fit HCS 44474 series, designed for through-hole board-to-board or cable applications. This shrouded 10-position connector with 4.20mm pitch and dual-row configuration serves general purpose, automotive, industrial, medical, and telecommunications applications. Substitute parts become necessary when addressing supply constraints, obsolescence of related components in a design, or when alternative connector series offer equivalent electrical and mechanical compatibility within the specified parameter envelope.

Substiute Parts

0444741021

MolexIn Stock: 12290444741021 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

1-1586586-0

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 8781-1586586-0 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the Molex 0444741021 is determined by strict alignment with the following parameters:

• Connector Type & Contact Configuration: Header with male pins
• Position Count & Row Configuration: 10 positions in 2-row arrangement
• Pitch Specification: 0.165" (4.20mm) mating pitch with matching row spacing
• Mounting & Termination: Through-hole solder termination
• Shrouding Design: 4-wall shrouded housing
• Insulation Material Class: Polyamide or equivalent nylon-based polymer
• Contact Finish: Tin plating on mating surfaces
• Compliance: ROHS3 compliance required

The TE Connectivity AMP Connectors part 1-1586586-0 from the VAL-U-LOK series meets these core substitution criteria. While this part carries obsolete product status, it maintains electrical and mechanical compatibility through identical pitch, position count, row configuration, shrouding, and termination method. Differences in contact material (brass alloy vs. copper alloy), contact finish thickness, flammability rating, and operating temperature range represent secondary variations that do not preclude functional substitution within the specified parameter framework.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Selection: Molex 0444741021 is the recommended choice for new designs and active production. This part maintains active product status, ensuring long-term availability and manufacturer support. The UL94 V-0 flammability rating provides superior material performance compared to the substitute option.

Substitute Consideration: TE Connectivity 1-1586586-0 is electrically and mechanically compatible for applications where the Molex part is unavailable. However, this part carries obsolete status, indicating discontinued manufacturing and limited remaining inventory. The lower flammability rating (UL94 V-2) and reduced contact finish thickness (39.4µin vs. 100.0µin) represent measurable differences that may affect long-term reliability in demanding environments. Both parts maintain ROHS3 compliance and identical pitch, position, and mounting specifications.

Compliance Alignment: Both parts satisfy ROHS3 requirements and carry EAR99 export classification. The identical HTSUS code (8536.69.4040) confirms tariff classification equivalence for rectangular connectors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the TE Connectivity 1-1586586-0 directly replace the Molex 0444741021 in existing designs?

A: Yes, from a mechanical and electrical standpoint. Both connectors share identical pitch (4.20mm), position count (10), row configuration (2), shrouding design (4-wall), and termination method (solder). PCB footprints and mating interface dimensions are compatible. However, the obsolete status of the TE part and differences in flammability rating should be evaluated against application requirements.

Q: What are the key differences between these two parts?

A: The primary differences are product status (active vs. obsolete), contact material (copper alloy vs. brass alloy), contact finish thickness (100.0µin vs. 39.4µin), and flammability rating (UL94 V-0 vs. UL94 V-2). These differences do not affect basic connector function but may impact long-term performance in high-temperature or high-reliability applications.

Q: Are the mating connectors interchangeable between these two header types?

A: Mating compatibility depends on the receptacle connector design. Both headers use identical 4.20mm pitch and 2-row configuration, so receptacles designed for either series should mate with both. Verify receptacle part number compatibility with the connector manufacturer.

Q: What is the significance of the contact finish thickness difference?

A: The Molex part specifies 100.0µin (2.54µm) tin plating versus 39.4µin (1.00µm) for the TE part. Thicker plating generally provides enhanced corrosion resistance and extended contact life under repeated mating cycles. For applications with frequent connection/disconnection, the Molex specification offers superior durability.

Q: Why is the TE Connectivity part listed as obsolete?

A: Obsolete status indicates the manufacturer has discontinued production. Remaining inventory may be available through authorized distributors, but long-term supply cannot be guaranteed. For new designs, the active Molex 0444741021 is the appropriate selection.

Q: Do both parts meet current regulatory requirements?

A: Yes. Both parts are ROHS3 compliant and carry identical ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS (8536.69.4040) classifications, confirming regulatory equivalence for export and environmental compliance purposes.